Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Major

Unit:

No.3 Battery, 1st Airlanding Light Regiment, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

January 20th, 1947

Awarded for:

Operation Market Garden

Citation:
"Major Munford established an Observation Post in the attic of a large building on the North West end of Arnhem bridge. He remained on duty at this Observation Post for three days without being relieved, from 2300 hrs 17th September until the building was burnt down at 2000 hrs 20th September. During all this time the attic was under continuous fire from weapons of all calibre, receiving three direct hits from 15 cm shells, and several 81 mm mortar bombs. The attic was also under observation and fire from snipers by whom Major Munford was wounded in the face on the first day. Ignoring his wounds and showing complete disregard for personal safety he maintained the Observation Post in the attic during the whole engagement, thus enabling accurate and effective fire to be brought to bear on the enemy at all times. He continued to give fire orders until the end though the building was burning fiercely and the attic was under the heaviest fire. Eventually his wireless set received a direct hit, killing the operator. He was then ordered to evacuate the building.
After organised resistance had ceased on the bridge he took command of a small party and attempted to lead them through the enemy lines, but was surrounded and taken prisoner. Whilst being evacuated he jumped off a lorry on the move, and succeeded in escaping, but was re-captured again.
Throughout the engagement Major Munford was an example and an encouragement to all ranks in his courage and devotion to duty. His skill, perseverance, and determination alone were responsible for the maintenance of communications with his Regiment. By exposing himself in an exceedingly open and hazardous position for three days he enabled the fire support to be brought down at all times, which was so decisive in holding our force on Arnhem bridge."

Royal Decree no. 1 of February 9th, 1946.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)